Fifth-wheel makers keep advancing

The fifth wheel—the coupling between the tractor and its trailer—is as essential a piece of equipment as any to fleets and their drivers. The “big three” manufacturers of these couplings aren’t standing still and say they continue to innovate going into 2022 to satisfy truck makers and fleet customers of all sizes.

One manufacturer, Fontaine Fifth Wheel, said it will launch its new SmartConnect system next year. Another, Jost International, has a new lighter fifth wheel on the way for electric trucks and other lighter applications. A third, SAF-Holland, continues to innovate with its Fifth Wheel Coupling Assistant smart technology.

Check out the gallery to get a deeper look into the latest fifth-wheel technology.